WAEC has just dropped a major update that directly affects students preparing for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). Under the new subject structure, Science and Arts students will no longer be allowed to offer Economics. From 2026 onward, only students in the Commercial (Business) stream can register for Economics.
This is not a minor adjustment. It is a structural change that affects subject combinations, career planning, and university admission pathways for thousands of Nigerian students, especially those currently in SS2 and SS3.
If you’re still choosing or finalising your subjects, this update changes everything.
What Exactly Changed in WAEC 2026 and Why It Matters
According to updates linked to WAEC’s curriculum reforms, Economics has now been restricted exclusively to the Commercial stream. As a result, students in the Science and Arts departments must remove Economics from their subject list before registration is completed.
At the same time, WAEC has introduced additional rules that reshape how students select subjects:
- Every candidate must offer a minimum of eight (8) subjects
- The maximum number of subjects allowed is nine (9)
- English Language, Mathematics, and Civic Education remain compulsory for all candidates
- Every student must now select at least one trade or vocational subject
These changes align with WAEC’s broader push toward skills-based education and early specialization, a direction also supported by Nigeria’s education policy reforms reported by outlets like allAfrica and The Guardian Nigeria
Mandatory Trade Subjects: Another Major Shift
In addition to subject restrictions, WAEC has introduced 35 approved trade and vocational subjects. This means no student, regardless of stream, can graduate without at least one practical or skill-based subject.
Examples include:
- Data Processing
- Garment Making
- Catering Craft Practice
- GSM Repairs
- Animal Husbandry
- Auto Mechanics
- Welding and Fabrication
The goal, according to education stakeholders, is to ensure students leave secondary school with employable, real-world skills, not just certificates. This reform mirrors global trends in education and Nigeria’s drive to reduce youth unemployment.
How Subject Combinations Now Look by Department
Science Students
Science students are now expected to focus strictly on core science and technical subjects such as:
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Civic Education
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Optional electives may include Further Mathematics, Technical Drawing, Computer Studies, or a Nigerian language (Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa). However, Economics is no longer permitted for Science candidates.
Arts Students
Arts students will concentrate on humanities-based subjects including:
- Literature-in-English
- Government or History
- CRS or IRS
- A Nigerian language
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Civic Education
Just like Science students, Economics has been removed entirely from the Arts subject pool.
Commercial (Business) Students
The Commercial stream is now the only pathway that retains Economics. Students in this category can offer:
- Economics
- Financial Accounting
- Commerce
- Government
- Office Practice
- Marketing
- Bookkeeping
This structure clearly positions Economics as a business-focused subject, rather than a general social science.
Why This WAEC Reform Is Generating Controversy
On one hand, supporters argue that WAEC’s decision encourages clear academic direction, reduces random subject combinations, and helps students align earlier with career goals.
On the other hand, critics believe the reform was introduced too suddenly and without sufficient consultation. Education analysts have raised concerns that many students have already studied Economics for years in SS1 and SS2, only to be forced to drop it now.
Another concern is that Economics is still required or recommended for several university courses, including some social science and management programs. Removing it from Science and Arts students could unintentionally block admission opportunities unless universities adjust their requirements.
What You Should Do Right Now as a Student
If you’re preparing for WAEC 2026, action is required immediately.
First, review your subject combination carefully. If you’re in the Science or Arts department and Economics is still listed, it must be removed before final registration.
Next, choose your replacement subject strategically. Don’t just pick anything. Select a subject that aligns with your intended university course or strengthens your academic profile.
After that, decide early on your compulsory trade subject. Pick something practical you can actually develop into a skill, not just a subject to pass.
In addition, speak with your school’s guidance counsellor or exam officer to confirm that your registration follows the new WAEC rules.
Finally, check your target university’s admission requirements. If Economics was previously important for your course, confirm whether alternatives are now accepted or if adjustments have been made.
What This Means Going Forward
WAEC’s 2026 subject overhaul is bold. It forces students to specialise earlier, pushes skill acquisition, and attempts to modernise Nigeria’s education system.
However, reforms of this scale must be handled carefully. Without proper guidance, clear communication, and flexibility from tertiary institutions, students could be unfairly affected.
For now, the most important thing is awareness and early planning. Students who understand these changes early will adapt smoothly. Those who ignore them may face registration issues or lost opportunities.
Stay informed through trusted education platforms and official WAEC updates athttps://www.waecnigeria.org
When it comes to WAEC 2026, clarity is power. Choose wisely, plan early, and don’t leave your future to guesswork.
